Australia: Off-grid wastewater system Wattamolla Beach

The challenge

Wattamolla beach, lagoon, and picnic area, is part of the Royal National Park, established in 1879 and the second oldest National Park in the world. The popular site can attract up to 8000 people per day in peak periods putting a strain on the national park's wastewater system requiring up to 90kWh per day. It is difficult to supply such high power demands in a site where trees are protected and solar exposure is limited.

The solution

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service decided to purchase a system with 19.2kW solar array and 250kWh battery bank to service the many visitors to the Wattamolla beach, lagoon, and picnic area. The system also has 12kW of 3-phase Xtender capacity and 21kW of VarioString MPPT capacity. The treated wastewater is pumped 6km away to the irrigation area.

During off-peak season it has sufficient energy to support the wastewater system by itself. During the summer season when the number of visitors increases substantially, the Studer Xtender inverter/chargers bring in the diesel genset when required to ensure maximum battery health and fail-proof operation.

Why Studer

For this important site it was essential to use products with proven track records of reliability. The Studer products also present a highly customisable architecture allowing precise automatic operation, the ability to wire the large array in high-voltage strings, and for the comprehensive data logging capability inbuilt into the RCC-02 display/control.

Project outcome

The wastewater system requires power 24 hours a day and previously the only alternative to obtain a constant supply at this remote site was by generator. Aside from the very high cost of fuel and delivery, the associated noise and pollution went very much against the beliefs of the organisation.

By maximising coverage of the loads by solar, fuel use, servicing requirements, and delivery inconvenience has been reduced, and the ecological focus of the organisations has been proven and sustained.

Systemkomponente

60 x Suntellite 320W Solar Modules

48 x Sonnenschein 2600Ah 2V A600 OPZV Gel Batteries

3 x STUDER XTM 4000-48 Xtender Inverter/Charger

3 x STUDER VarioString VS-120 7kW MPPT

MicroSolar Tilt Adjusted Frame

Verantwortlichen Firma

Solar Power Australia

The challenge

Wattamolla beach, lagoon, and picnic area, is part of the Royal National Park, established in 1879 and the second oldest National Park in the world. The popular site can attract up to 8000 people per day in peak periods putting a strain on the national park's wastewater system requiring up to 90kWh per day. It is difficult to supply such high power demands in a site where trees are protected and solar exposure is limited.

The solution

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service decided to purchase a system with 19.2kW solar array and 250kWh battery bank to service the many visitors to the Wattamolla beach, lagoon, and picnic area. The system also has 12kW of 3-phase Xtender capacity and 21kW of VarioString MPPT capacity. The treated wastewater is pumped 6km away to the irrigation area.

During off-peak season it has sufficient energy to support the wastewater system by itself. During the summer season when the number of visitors increases substantially, the Studer Xtender inverter/chargers bring in the diesel genset when required to ensure maximum battery health and fail-proof operation.

Why Studer

For this important site it was essential to use products with proven track records of reliability. The Studer products also present a highly customisable architecture allowing precise automatic operation, the ability to wire the large array in high-voltage strings, and for the comprehensive data logging capability inbuilt into the RCC-02 display/control.

Project outcome

The wastewater system requires power 24 hours a day and previously the only alternative to obtain a constant supply at this remote site was by generator. Aside from the very high cost of fuel and delivery, the associated noise and pollution went very much against the beliefs of the organisation.

By maximising coverage of the loads by solar, fuel use, servicing requirements, and delivery inconvenience has been reduced, and the ecological focus of the organisations has been proven and sustained.

Case Study Form

Chad: 3 solar Mini-Grids

The challenge

Chad has one of the lowest electrification rates in the world, 4%. UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) and the Chadian Ministry of Oil and Energy selected Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA) for the installation and operation of 3 pilot solar mini-grids as technology demonstration for improving the electrification rate in Chad with a sustainable management model ensuring the operation during the project lifecycle.

The solution

The systems have PV generation of 36 to 45 kWp with OPzS battery storage and diesel generator as back-up. The electricity generated by the solar systems is distributed through an underground line installed in the village and finally delivered to the population through a service-based tariff scheme, based on an electricity dispenser installed at each user', capable to control both energy as well as limiting the current.
Studer's equipment matched the challenging requirements in terms of robustness and reliability in semi-desert isolated areas. In addition, Studer's solution allowed to fully integrate the service-based tariff scheme in to the system, by driving frequency control mode adapted to the management model implemented. The electricity dispensers perform all their functionalities and display the system information to the final user.

Why Studer

Studer ’s high quality and reliable products are suitable to the extreme project conditions. The Studer solution allowed to configure the system to integrate the mini-grid management model functionalities and implement system information display (bonus, restriction) in the smart meters.

Project outcome

The 3 villages in Chad have a reliable electricity service with a local management model in place that will make it sustainable for the next 20 years. The use of the service-based approach integrated in the system has demonstrated many benefits:

The mini-grids work within their design range with almost no black-outs

The batteries maintain a good charge with the consequent benefit in term of life-span

The use of the diesel genset is minimized, reducing the O&M costs

The overdue payments are avoided

Systemkomponente

6 x Xtender, XTH 6000-48 STUDER

10 to 12 x VarioTrack, VT-80 STUDER

1 x Remote Control, RCC-02 STUDER

1 x Internet communication module, Xcom-GSM STUDER

Verantwortlichen Firma

Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA)

The challenge

Chad has one of the lowest electrification rates in the world, 4%. UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization) and the Chadian Ministry of Oil and Energy selected Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA) for the installation and operation of 3 pilot solar mini-grids as technology demonstration for improving the electrification rate in Chad with a sustainable management model ensuring the operation during the project lifecycle.

The solution

The systems have PV generation of 36 to 45 kWp with OPzS battery storage and diesel generator as back-up. The electricity generated by the solar systems is distributed through an underground line installed in the village and finally delivered to the population through a service-based tariff scheme, based on an electricity dispenser installed at each user', capable to control both energy as well as limiting the current.
Studer's equipment matched the challenging requirements in terms of robustness and reliability in semi-desert isolated areas. In addition, Studer's solution allowed to fully integrate the service-based tariff scheme in to the system, by driving frequency control mode adapted to the management model implemented. The electricity dispensers perform all their functionalities and display the system information to the final user.

Why Studer

Studer ’s high quality and reliable products are suitable to the extreme project conditions. The Studer solution allowed to configure the system to integrate the mini-grid management model functionalities and implement system information display (bonus, restriction) in the smart meters.

Project outcome

The 3 villages in Chad have a reliable electricity service with a local management model in place that will make it sustainable for the next 20 years. The use of the service-based approach integrated in the system has demonstrated many benefits:

The mini-grids work within their design range with almost no black-outs

The batteries maintain a good charge with the consequent benefit in term of life-span

Chile: 90 casas del pueblo Toconce, ENEL

The challenge

It was during the development of South America's first geothermal power plant "Cerro Pabellón", inaugurated in September 2017, situated in the Antofagasta region of Chile that Enel first came in contact with the inhabitants of Toconce. Committed to improve the quality of life in remote areas by clever electrification, Enel took on the challenge of finding a solution for 90 of the village's households.

The solution

By implementing a distributed energy solution, each home is equipped with its own photovoltaic energy system, complete with PV panels on the roof and an integrated cabinet containing an inverter/charger, an MPPT solar charge controller and a lithium battery. With individual systems the households can manage their energy consumption autonomously.

The electrical cabinets are mounted in accordance with the Chilean electrical standards and access to the cabinets is restricted. The households with installed solar systems have received a detailed training on how to use and maintain their installations.

Why Studer

This village is installed at 3'310 meter above sea level and any equipment installed there must support both hot and cold extreme temperatures. Studer products were chosen for their demonstrated reliable performance under extreme conditions.

Studer products also offer a unique versatility in programming, and are compatible with many types of batteries, in this case lithium-ion batteries from SimpliPhi.

Project outcome

The inhabitants of Toconce have now access to electricity in their homes 24/7. Their quality of life has greatly improved with their use of household electronics such as refrigerators, washing machines and lights.

Their previous use of noisy, polluting diesel generators have been replaced by clean, green energy giving them the opportunity to grow and/or start new businesses.

Systemkomponente

STUDER XTM 4000-48 inverter/charger

STUDER MPPT VarioTrack, VT-65

4 x Astronergy Polycrystalline module CHSM6612P 310 Wp

SimpliPhi Lithium technology Model Phi3.4

Mounting Systems, aluminium and stainless steel

Other: Battery monitor, SBM-02

Verantwortlichen Firma

Enel Green Power Chile und STC Sunbelt

The challenge

It was during the development of South America's first geothermal power plant "Cerro Pabellón", inaugurated in September 2017, situated in the Antofagasta region of Chile that Enel first came in contact with the inhabitants of Toconce. Committed to improve the quality of life in remote areas by clever electrification, Enel took on the challenge of finding a solution for 90 of the village's households.

The solution

By implementing a distributed energy solution, each home is equipped with its own photovoltaic energy system, complete with PV panels on the roof and an integrated cabinet containing an inverter/charger, an MPPT solar charge controller and a lithium battery. With individual systems the households can manage their energy consumption autonomously.

The electrical cabinets are mounted in accordance with the Chilean electrical standards and access to the cabinets is restricted. The households with installed solar systems have received a detailed training on how to use and maintain their installations.

Why Studer

This village is installed at 3'310 meter above sea level and any equipment installed there must support both hot and cold extreme temperatures. Studer products were chosen for their demonstrated reliable performance under extreme conditions.

Studer products also offer a unique versatility in programming, and are compatible with many types of batteries, in this case lithium-ion batteries from SimpliPhi.

Project outcome

The inhabitants of Toconce have now access to electricity in their homes 24/7. Their quality of life has greatly improved with their use of household electronics such as refrigerators, washing machines and lights.

Their previous use of noisy, polluting diesel generators have been replaced by clean, green energy giving them the opportunity to grow and/or start new businesses.

Colombia: Casa de la MUJER, Hemeva

The challenge

10% of Colombia's 49 Million population live in the country's border areas without access to the national grid. Power supply in these areas is typically generated from community diesel generators that supply power for a few hours a day when diesel is available.

The small textile factory "Casa de la Mujer - Chejuru" in the Selva del Mataven Unified Indigenous Reservoir (composed of 92 communities), is only accessible by boat during the winter when the water level in the rivers are high enough for transports. During summer the supply of diesel is scarce and it is impossible to generate electricity, even for a few hours.

For a sustainable development of these areas Colombia's government has launched the initiative “Plan Fronteras para la Prosperidad” led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The goal is to encourage the development of income generating companies creating a financially sustainable solution over time by providing a reliable and continuous power supply during the working day through off-grid electrification.

The solution

The 7 kWp PV system at "Casa de la Mujer – Chejuru" provides reliable and stable energy supply to power the operation of 25 sewing machines and two filleting machines to produce, market and sell clothing to the local population.

The offered solution based on solar generation and battery storage avoids the use of diesel electric generators, saving 100% of diesel consumption and thereby reducing the CO2 emissions with 90 to 100 MT per year. The repayment time for the project is estimated to less than 5 years and the installation's life-time to 25 years, with a planned replacement of the batteries after 12 years (with adequate maintenance).

The local community actively participated in the project for a concerted, inclusive and adequate solution in line with their expectations, needs and long-term vision.

Why STUDER

STUDER is a recognised brand in solution systems for isolated installations owing to the robustness and reliability of its equipment, as well as the high integrability of its equipment for optimal operation and local monitoring. The most important reasons are that they feature a very low fault level and an operating logic designed and developed to extend the life of the batteries.

Project outcome

Project sustainability will be achieved through commercialisation of the produced clothes to nearby communities and additional economic benefits is obtained by sharing the electricity with the community's other company "Cooperativa de Artesanos" sending handicrafts to local and international markets.

By encouraging the development of a durable financial solution for these communities the Colombian government also seek to counteract the deforestation of these areas vital for the environmental balance of our planet.

Systemkomponente

1 x XTH 6000-48-01 STUDER inverter/charger

22 x 320Wp ETSolar solar panels

8 x SIND 06 1225 TROJAN stationary battery elements

1 x VS-120 STUDER solar controller

1 x BSP 500 STUDER battery monitor

1 x RCC-03 STUDER display

1 x battery cabinet

1 x guard cabinet

Verantwortlichen Firma

Hemeva S.A.S

The challenge

10% of Colombia's 49 Million population live in the country's border areas without access to the national grid. Power supply in these areas is typically generated from community diesel generators that supply power for a few hours a day when diesel is available.

The small textile factory "Casa de la Mujer - Chejuru" in the Selva del Mataven Unified Indigenous Reservoir (composed of 92 communities), is only accessible by boat during the winter when the water level in the rivers are high enough for transports. During summer the supply of diesel is scarce and it is impossible to generate electricity, even for a few hours.

For a sustainable development of these areas Colombia's government has launched the initiative “Plan Fronteras para la Prosperidad” led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The goal is to encourage the development of income generating companies creating a financially sustainable solution over time by providing a reliable and continuous power supply during the working day through off-grid electrification.

The solution

The 7 kWp PV system at "Casa de la Mujer – Chejuru" provides reliable and stable energy supply to power the operation of 25 sewing machines and two filleting machines to produce, market and sell clothing to the local population.

The offered solution based on solar generation and battery storage avoids the use of diesel electric generators, saving 100% of diesel consumption and thereby reducing the CO2 emissions with 90 to 100 MT per year. The repayment time for the project is estimated to less than 5 years and the installation's life-time to 25 years, with a planned replacement of the batteries after 12 years (with adequate maintenance).

The local community actively participated in the project for a concerted, inclusive and adequate solution in line with their expectations, needs and long-term vision.

Why STUDER

STUDER is a recognised brand in solution systems for isolated installations owing to the robustness and reliability of its equipment, as well as the high integrability of its equipment for optimal operation and local monitoring. The most important reasons are that they feature a very low fault level and an operating logic designed and developed to extend the life of the batteries.

Project outcome

Project sustainability will be achieved through commercialisation of the produced clothes to nearby communities and additional economic benefits is obtained by sharing the electricity with the community's other company "Cooperativa de Artesanos" sending handicrafts to local and international markets.

By encouraging the development of a durable financial solution for these communities the Colombian government also seek to counteract the deforestation of these areas vital for the environmental balance of our planet.

Colombia: Off-Grid System Water Pumping Station

The challenge

The water distribution system of the Colombian town Rubiales in the Meta department was previously using a diesel generator for its pumping station. As both fuel and maintenance of a diesel generator is expensive, they were looking for a renewable energy system to replace it completely. In Colombia hydropower accounts for about two thirds of the generation capacity (2016).

The solution

This is a complete off-grid system for a pumping station with two submerged pumps. One pump draws water from an 80m deep well into an 80m3 water storage tank. The second pump is transferring water from that tank to a 50m3 storage tank in a water tower located 60 m above ground. The water then flows by gravity to the town users, about 100 homes.

The solar system is composed of a 54 kWp solar field, four 48V battery banks each of 2405Ah C-100, nine solar charge controllers in parallel and three inverter/chargers in a 3-phase system configuration.

Why Studer

For this installation Studer products were chosen due to their high product quality and their excellent communication between solar charge controllers and inverter/chargers making them easy to install and to commission.

Project outcome

The habitants of the Rubiales town is now solely using solar power for their local aqueduct. As additional benefits, its operation is silent and there is no pollution.

Replacing the existing diesel generator with an off-grid system to power the pumping station was not only a technical challenge but it also meant a reorganisation of the pumping stations running times in order to make the system efficient. The pumps are still running 9 hours per day; however, they start a few hours later in order to fully benefit from the power generation close to midday when the sun is at its peak. In the beginning, this change was difficult for the people as they were used to having the water supply already at five o'clock in the morning.
Currently some users do not have water tanks, meters or valves to close the pipes and the clear water waste is big, approximately 30% of the water supply. If they would put in valves to close the pipes and save the water the need for pumping hours would decrease, the availability to water be extended and they could supply water to new users.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Hemeva S.A.S

The challenge

The water distribution system of the Colombian town Rubiales in the Meta department was previously using a diesel generator for its pumping station. As both fuel and maintenance of a diesel generator is expensive, they were looking for a renewable energy system to replace it completely. In Colombia hydropower accounts for about two thirds of the generation capacity (2016).

The solution

This is a complete off-grid system for a pumping station with two submerged pumps. One pump draws water from an 80m deep well into an 80m3 water storage tank. The second pump is transferring water from that tank to a 50m3 storage tank in a water tower located 60 m above ground. The water then flows by gravity to the town users, about 100 homes.

The solar system is composed of a 54 kWp solar field, four 48V battery banks each of 2405Ah C-100, nine solar charge controllers in parallel and three inverter/chargers in a 3-phase system configuration.

Why Studer

For this installation Studer products were chosen due to their high product quality and their excellent communication between solar charge controllers and inverter/chargers making them easy to install and to commission.

Project outcome

The habitants of the Rubiales town is now solely using solar power for their local aqueduct. As additional benefits, its operation is silent and there is no pollution.

Replacing the existing diesel generator with an off-grid system to power the pumping station was not only a technical challenge but it also meant a reorganisation of the pumping stations running times in order to make the system efficient. The pumps are still running 9 hours per day; however, they start a few hours later in order to fully benefit from the power generation close to midday when the sun is at its peak. In the beginning, this change was difficult for the people as they were used to having the water supply already at five o'clock in the morning.
Currently some users do not have water tanks, meters or valves to close the pipes and the clear water waste is big, approximately 30% of the water supply. If they would put in valves to close the pipes and save the water the need for pumping hours would decrease, the availability to water be extended and they could supply water to new users.

Eritrea: Back-up System

The challenge

At the Orotta hospital, in Asmara, Eritrea, wards such as the children's paediatric cardiac surgery and neonatology are extremely sensitive to power failure. As the Eritrean grid is not stable, the hospital needs to secure the existing electrical installations. Until now, the hospital used a diesel generator as backup but the solar irradiance in Eritrea is very high which makes it extremely favourable for the use of PV. Therefore, a PV system was chosen to guarantee a reliable power supply for the Orotta hospital in case of power failure.

The solution

The new backup solar system with priority loads provides two vital hospital wards with secure and uninterruptible power supply. Now a battery bank, which is additionally solar fed with a PV-generator, supplies the most important consumers in the operating theatre and the maternity room without interruption during power blackouts.

The system is designed to provide 60kWh of daily production with the inverter/chargers providing a 42kW peak load. This way, it can provide around seven hours of power during operation daily without grid or diesel generator, and four hours without sun.
PV generator 14,4 kWp, Battery bank 124 kWh storage capacity.

For the power management, components from Studer Innotec are used: three VarioTrack MPPT charge controllers, VT-80, six Xtender inverter/chargers XTH 8000-48 and a remote control guarantee a reliable energy management.

The system, installed by the Phaesun Asmara team, has been financed by the non-profit organisation Archemed which supports public hospitals.

Why Studer

Perfect electronics to guarantee the power supply without interruptions.

Project outcome

The doctors, nurses and patients at the Orotta hospital are now equipped with a reliable backup solar system to guarantee that there will always be a sufficient energy supply and that there is no risk that lights or medical appliances will shut down during an operation.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Phaesun

The challenge

At the Orotta hospital, in Asmara, Eritrea, wards such as the children's paediatric cardiac surgery and neonatology are extremely sensitive to power failure. As the Eritrean grid is not stable, the hospital needs to secure the existing electrical installations. Until now, the hospital used a diesel generator as backup but the solar irradiance in Eritrea is very high which makes it extremely favourable for the use of PV. Therefore, a PV system was chosen to guarantee a reliable power supply for the Orotta hospital in case of power failure.

The solution

The new backup solar system with priority loads provides two vital hospital wards with secure and uninterruptible power supply. Now a battery bank, which is additionally solar fed with a PV-generator, supplies the most important consumers in the operating theatre and the maternity room without interruption during power blackouts.

The system is designed to provide 60kWh of daily production with the inverter/chargers providing a 42kW peak load. This way, it can provide around seven hours of power during operation daily without grid or diesel generator, and four hours without sun.
PV generator 14,4 kWp, Battery bank 124 kWh storage capacity.

For the power management, components from Studer Innotec are used: three VarioTrack MPPT charge controllers, VT-80, six Xtender inverter/chargers XTH 8000-48 and a remote control guarantee a reliable energy management.

The system, installed by the Phaesun Asmara team, has been financed by the non-profit organisation Archemed which supports public hospitals.

Why Studer

Perfect electronics to guarantee the power supply without interruptions.

Project outcome

The doctors, nurses and patients at the Orotta hospital are now equipped with a reliable backup solar system to guarantee that there will always be a sufficient energy supply and that there is no risk that lights or medical appliances will shut down during an operation.

Gaza, Palestine: Islamic University, Back-up System

The challenge

Palestine has a severe energy problem. The energy production of their one functioning power plant is not sufficient to meet the country's energy needs and due to their political situation, it is difficult to import sufficient energy from neighbouring countries. The electricity is typically available for a number of hours per day and then cut for at least as many.

The Islamic University Gaza (IUG) was founded in 1978 and has currently ten faculties delivering BA., B.SC, MA and M.Sc degrees. Until now, the university was using the utility grid for energy supply and diesel generators as backup during blackouts. As the number of blackouts became more frequent and with longer duration, the cost for the diesel generators increased and the university started to look for a new energy solution for its laboratories building.

The solution

As Gaza has 320 days of sunshine per year, the IUG chose solar energy for their new backup system for the laboratory building. The system consists of two parts. Each with a 70kWp PV array, 9 XTH 8000-48 units, 15 VT-80 and a 3330Ah@C10 battery bank.

The total PV capacity of 140kWp is enough for the entire buildings lighting, which represent 40% of the buildings total energy needs.

Why Studer

Under the existing circumstances, the new system had to be flawless and it was challenging to find reliable and efficient system components. Especially as they had to be ungradable as well. With Studer's products, the system design and implementation was smooth and a great experience.
Furthermore Studer's inverter/chargers enable a 3-phase supply and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Project outcome

The new backup system ensures the availability of power during working hours or during any occasion. The IUG is convinced by the backup systems performance and its general strategy is now to create more sustainable and environmentally friendly campuses in Gaza. They are planning retrofitting measures to existing buildings and renewable energy for their future energy generation.

Systemkomponente

SunTech 315Wp, 140kWp solar modules

BAE 3330Ah-48V, 2x 3330Ah,maintenance free Gel batteries

18 x STUDER inverter/chargers, Xtender, XTH 8000-48, 230 Vac/50Hz

30 x STUDER solar charge controllers, VarioTrack, VT-80

6 x STUDER remote control, RCC-02

6 x STUDER mounting frames X-Connect

2 x STUDER BSP-1200 (battery status processor)

Verantwortlichen Firma

PalSolar

The challenge

Palestine has a severe energy problem. The energy production of their one functioning power plant is not sufficient to meet the country's energy needs and due to their political situation, it is difficult to import sufficient energy from neighbouring countries. The electricity is typically available for a number of hours per day and then cut for at least as many.

The Islamic University Gaza (IUG) was founded in 1978 and has currently ten faculties delivering BA., B.SC, MA and M.Sc degrees. Until now, the university was using the utility grid for energy supply and diesel generators as backup during blackouts. As the number of blackouts became more frequent and with longer duration, the cost for the diesel generators increased and the university started to look for a new energy solution for its laboratories building.

The solution

As Gaza has 320 days of sunshine per year, the IUG chose solar energy for their new backup system for the laboratory building. The system consists of two parts. Each with a 70kWp PV array, 9 XTH 8000-48 units, 15 VT-80 and a 3330Ah@C10 battery bank.

The total PV capacity of 140kWp is enough for the entire buildings lighting, which represent 40% of the buildings total energy needs.

Why Studer

Under the existing circumstances, the new system had to be flawless and it was challenging to find reliable and efficient system components. Especially as they had to be ungradable as well. With Studer's products, the system design and implementation was smooth and a great experience.
Furthermore Studer's inverter/chargers enable a 3-phase supply and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Project outcome

The new backup system ensures the availability of power during working hours or during any occasion. The IUG is convinced by the backup systems performance and its general strategy is now to create more sustainable and environmentally friendly campuses in Gaza. They are planning retrofitting measures to existing buildings and renewable energy for their future energy generation.

Ghana: 5 solar Mini-Grids

The challenge

The Ghana Energy Development and Access Project (GEDAP) by the Ministry of Power implemented 5 mini-grids on a turn-key basis to provide access to electricity service 24/7 and enhance income generating activities to a total population of around 3,500 in remote island communities on Volta Lake. This project was the first of its kind promoting RE based mini-grids to play a key role in Ghana's transition to a low-carbon economy while electrifying population in rural areas.

The solution

The five mini-grids implemented by Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA) required a different design and configuration based on the demand surveys and project context. By choosing the Studer solution it was possible to use the same equipment in different configurations (three-phase or single-phase, batteries of different size and configuration, a mix of PV and wind power generation, different size of back-up diesel generators) monitored with the same tool and procedures.

The centralised system provides electricity through a low-voltage distribution grid consisting of a three-phase backbone feeder with single-phase laterals connecting single-phase loads at each customer's premises. A dedicated line feeds high-efficiency LED street lamps throughout the villages.

Why Studer

Studer equipment is especially designed for off-grid applications. The flexibility of Studer products allowed to use a modular solution matching the different system configurations based on the demand and field studies. In addition, the systems are easily scalable and can be operated and monitored using centralized tools and equipment.

Project outcome

The five mini-grids serve as a demonstration project and showcase to representatives from other West African countries. This flexible design can be adapted to any configuration required by a rural electrification project with the following advantages:

The modularity allows the mini-grids to be scaled up (or down). Requests for service upgrading started immediately after the start-up phase, corn-mills operation, cooling equipment, etc. A 20% extension is already under negotiation.

Installation and operational costs are minimized using the same equipment with different configurations

More effective training for local O&M

Centralized, efficient management of spare parts

Systemkomponente

21 x STUDER inverter/chargers, Xtender, XTH 8000-48

46 x STUDER solar charge controllers,VarioTrack, VT-80

5 x STUDER remote Control, RCC-02

5 x STUDER Internet communication module, Xcom-GSM

Verantwortlichen Firma

Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA)

The challenge

The Ghana Energy Development and Access Project (GEDAP) by the Ministry of Power implemented 5 mini-grids on a turn-key basis to provide access to electricity service 24/7 and enhance income generating activities to a total population of around 3,500 in remote island communities on Volta Lake. This project was the first of its kind promoting RE based mini-grids to play a key role in Ghana's transition to a low-carbon economy while electrifying population in rural areas.

The solution

The five mini-grids implemented by Trama TecnoAmbiental (TTA) required a different design and configuration based on the demand surveys and project context. By choosing the Studer solution it was possible to use the same equipment in different configurations (three-phase or single-phase, batteries of different size and configuration, a mix of PV and wind power generation, different size of back-up diesel generators) monitored with the same tool and procedures.

The centralised system provides electricity through a low-voltage distribution grid consisting of a three-phase backbone feeder with single-phase laterals connecting single-phase loads at each customer's premises. A dedicated line feeds high-efficiency LED street lamps throughout the villages.

Why Studer

Studer equipment is especially designed for off-grid applications. The flexibility of Studer products allowed to use a modular solution matching the different system configurations based on the demand and field studies. In addition, the systems are easily scalable and can be operated and monitored using centralized tools and equipment.

Project outcome

The five mini-grids serve as a demonstration project and showcase to representatives from other West African countries. This flexible design can be adapted to any configuration required by a rural electrification project with the following advantages:

The modularity allows the mini-grids to be scaled up (or down). Requests for service upgrading started immediately after the start-up phase, corn-mills operation, cooling equipment, etc. A 20% extension is already under negotiation.

Installation and operational costs are minimized using the same equipment with different configurations

India: Apartment complex in Bangalore, Off-Grid System

The challenge

An unreliable electric grid in combination with the owner's deep interest in solar power were the two main reasons to install an off-grid system in the luxury apartment complex "Ashish Pride" in central Bangalore, India. This is Bangalore's first apartment complex to run on solar energy.

The solution

The loads for this apartment complex includes the common area lighting (including the garden), a Schindler-elevator for 10 persons, four water pumps (2 Borewell submersible pumps and 2 pumps for an overhead tank) and five apartments.

During power outages, the system also provide backup for the lighting of the 25 apartments.

Why Studer

The owner chose Studer products for this installation, as he needed inverter/chargers capable of handling high surge loads like an elevator and motors.

This independent system is also pre-configured and is totally trouble free. There is no manpower required for its continuous operation.

Project outcome

The system was commissioned in 2015 and the off-grid system has been able to produce enough energy, in average 90- 110 kWh/day, to power the specified loads.

The area previously used by the diesel generator for backup has been converted into parking spaces. The owner has also been able to increase the price of the apartments with the selling argument that he can guarantee power 24/7 with solar energy.

Verantwortlichen Firma

JJJ Solar

The challenge

An unreliable electric grid in combination with the owner's deep interest in solar power were the two main reasons to install an off-grid system in the luxury apartment complex "Ashish Pride" in central Bangalore, India. This is Bangalore's first apartment complex to run on solar energy.

The solution

The loads for this apartment complex includes the common area lighting (including the garden), a Schindler-elevator for 10 persons, four water pumps (2 Borewell submersible pumps and 2 pumps for an overhead tank) and five apartments.

During power outages, the system also provide backup for the lighting of the 25 apartments.

Why Studer

The owner chose Studer products for this installation, as he needed inverter/chargers capable of handling high surge loads like an elevator and motors.

This independent system is also pre-configured and is totally trouble free. There is no manpower required for its continuous operation.

Project outcome

The system was commissioned in 2015 and the off-grid system has been able to produce enough energy, in average 90- 110 kWh/day, to power the specified loads.

The area previously used by the diesel generator for backup has been converted into parking spaces. The owner has also been able to increase the price of the apartments with the selling argument that he can guarantee power 24/7 with solar energy.

India: Car Showroom, Sirsi, AC coupling

The challenge

India is the third largest electricity producer & consumer in the world, after USA & China. Even so, over hundreds of millions of people are not connected to the electrical grid. The Indian national grids are experiencing difficulties with frequent power outages and perhaps as much as ¼ of the generated energy lost during transmission or stolen.
The state Karnataka, situated in the south of India, is actively trying to change this situation by encouraging individuals, societies, institutions and companies to install grid-connected rooftop solar units; in first hand to make people self-sufficient in electrical power and in second hand to inject any surplus into the local grid paid by net-metering. With 300 sunny days a year, Karnataka has 10 gigawatts of solar energy potential. If all goes according to plan, rooftops alone will contribute with 400 megawatts by 2018.

The solution

This car show room and service centre initially had an on-grid system, which was completely unsuccessful due to regular power cuts during the daytime. During power outages, they had to rely on a diesel generator for backup. The energy was mainly used to power pneumatic jacks, compressors and other basic utilities.

By taking 5 kWp of the existing PV panels and adding 3 inverter/chargers, one MPPT solar charge controller and 150 Ah batteries, they now have converted their pure on-grid system into an AC-coupled self-consumption system with grid-feeding.
With the new PV system they are not only self-sufficient but they can also inject electricity into the grid making money. This solution gives them access to uninterrupted power and good surge handling when using big loads such as a pneumatic jack.

Why Studer

Studer products were chosen for this system as they are reliable and have a good surge handling capacity. They are also capable of sending the excess electrical power back to the grid and credits are given from main power supply unit for excess power generated.

Project outcome

With the new system, there is less need to run a diesel generator. The owner of the car show room has been able to inject approximately 30% of the generated energy back into the grid, especially energy generated during lunch hours and holidays. Furthermore, he is no longer exposed to the frequent power outages as he has his own independent energy system.The area previously used by the diesel generator for backup has been converted into parking spaces. The owner has also been able to increase the price of the apartments with the selling argument that he can guarantee power 24/7 with solar energy.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Popular solar

The challenge

India is the third largest electricity producer & consumer in the world, after USA & China. Even so, over hundreds of millions of people are not connected to the electrical grid. The Indian national grids are experiencing difficulties with frequent power outages and perhaps as much as ¼ of the generated energy lost during transmission or stolen.
The state Karnataka, situated in the south of India, is actively trying to change this situation by encouraging individuals, societies, institutions and companies to install grid-connected rooftop solar units; in first hand to make people self-sufficient in electrical power and in second hand to inject any surplus into the local grid paid by net-metering. With 300 sunny days a year, Karnataka has 10 gigawatts of solar energy potential. If all goes according to plan, rooftops alone will contribute with 400 megawatts by 2018.

The solution

This car show room and service centre initially had an on-grid system, which was completely unsuccessful due to regular power cuts during the daytime. During power outages, they had to rely on a diesel generator for backup. The energy was mainly used to power pneumatic jacks, compressors and other basic utilities.

By taking 5 kWp of the existing PV panels and adding 3 inverter/chargers, one MPPT solar charge controller and 150 Ah batteries, they now have converted their pure on-grid system into an AC-coupled self-consumption system with grid-feeding.
With the new PV system they are not only self-sufficient but they can also inject electricity into the grid making money. This solution gives them access to uninterrupted power and good surge handling when using big loads such as a pneumatic jack.

Why Studer

Studer products were chosen for this system as they are reliable and have a good surge handling capacity. They are also capable of sending the excess electrical power back to the grid and credits are given from main power supply unit for excess power generated.

Project outcome

With the new system, there is less need to run a diesel generator. The owner of the car show room has been able to inject approximately 30% of the generated energy back into the grid, especially energy generated during lunch hours and holidays. Furthermore, he is no longer exposed to the frequent power outages as he has his own independent energy system.The area previously used by the diesel generator for backup has been converted into parking spaces. The owner has also been able to increase the price of the apartments with the selling argument that he can guarantee power 24/7 with solar energy.

India: Namanne industries, Self-Consumption System

The challenge

To manage a small industrial business is challenging and even more so when the erratic power supply from the electrical grid makes it impossible to stick to production plans or to meet set delivery dates. Collaborators have to be paid their salaries, even though they are incapacitated to perform their work.
In July 2015 Nammane Industries, a manufacturer of disposable bowls, plates and cups made from Areca leaves situated in Bangalore, decided to change this situation by investing in a self-consumption system to become energy independent.

The solution

As many small businesses Nammane Industries is situated in the same building as its owner's private home. The self-consumption system was therefore dimensioned to cover loads of both industrial and domestic character. The industrial loads included a hydraulic lift in single phase and other machines for making the plates.

A 5kW rooftop PV plant was installed on the building's roof. For practical reasons the 20 panels were mounted on a metal structure providing access to the roof for other activities such as children playing or drying clothes. The complete loads are powered with solar power. This way the machines keep working even during power cuts.

If there is excess power, it is injected into the grid against a feed-in tariff, making money for the owner. The system avoids any manual intervention and supervise all aspects; from generation to charging of batteries, supply to industrial and domestic consumption and feeding into the grid.

Why Studer

In this geographical area, the voltage fluctuations are high and most industrial equipment won't work. By using devices from Studer Innotec the surge capacity needed by the machines are met and the inverter/chargers produce a pure sine wave AC power output which make all machines perform at their best.

Project outcome

So far the system has always produced more energy than needed giving the owner the possibility to sell power to the grid by using the inverter/chargers that automatically control the required in-house consumption and accordingly supply the surplus to the grid. Providing a welcome extra revenue.

The company has been able to make on-time deliveries to their customers, as they no longer experience any power cuts.

Systemkomponente

5 KWp Tata BP Solar Panels

4 x Tata Power 12V/100Ah batteries

1 x STUDER inverter/charger Xtender, XTM 4000-48

1 x STUDER MPPT solar charge controller, VarioTrack VT-80

Racking:Roof mounted

1 x STUDER Xcom-LAN

Verantwortlichen Firma

Popular solar

The challenge

To manage a small industrial business is challenging and even more so when the erratic power supply from the electrical grid makes it impossible to stick to production plans or to meet set delivery dates. Collaborators have to be paid their salaries, even though they are incapacitated to perform their work.
In July 2015 Nammane Industries, a manufacturer of disposable bowls, plates and cups made from Areca leaves situated in Bangalore, decided to change this situation by investing in a self-consumption system to become energy independent.

The solution

As many small businesses Nammane Industries is situated in the same building as its owner's private home. The self-consumption system was therefore dimensioned to cover loads of both industrial and domestic character. The industrial loads included a hydraulic lift in single phase and other machines for making the plates.

A 5kW rooftop PV plant was installed on the building's roof. For practical reasons the 20 panels were mounted on a metal structure providing access to the roof for other activities such as children playing or drying clothes. The complete loads are powered with solar power. This way the machines keep working even during power cuts.

If there is excess power, it is injected into the grid against a feed-in tariff, making money for the owner. The system avoids any manual intervention and supervise all aspects; from generation to charging of batteries, supply to industrial and domestic consumption and feeding into the grid.

Why Studer

In this geographical area, the voltage fluctuations are high and most industrial equipment won't work. By using devices from Studer Innotec the surge capacity needed by the machines are met and the inverter/chargers produce a pure sine wave AC power output which make all machines perform at their best.

Project outcome

So far the system has always produced more energy than needed giving the owner the possibility to sell power to the grid by using the inverter/chargers that automatically control the required in-house consumption and accordingly supply the surplus to the grid. Providing a welcome extra revenue.

The company has been able to make on-time deliveries to their customers, as they no longer experience any power cuts.

India: Rural electrification of Pasanga

The challenge

Far away from the grid in the Gumla district, Jharkand, India, lies the village Pasanga. As the transmission line for the national grid is far away, an off-grid solar system was the answer for powering the village's rice hullers (agricultural machines that remove the outer coat of the rice) as well as irrigation pumps and household lighting.

The solution

Commissioned in 2016, this off-grid system of 24.3kW supplies 30 of the village houses with electricity as well as the irrigation pumps and agricultural machines.

The power is distributed through transmission cables without any loss. All connected houses has an individual smart meter that registers their energy consumption.

Each energy unit has a fixed price and the consumers pay in advance, on a monthly basis their estimated energy consumption.

Other village houses may also join the local network once they pay the minimum charge fee.

Why Studer

For this installation, it was vital to find inverter/chargers that could provide uninterrupted power with high surge handling capacity and high efficiency. As our XTH 8000-48 in the Xtender series with a surge capacity of 21kVA.

Project outcome

The village enjoys access to energy through a stand-alone system that provides them with power whenever they need it.

The smooth operating system is free from pollution and provides the village independent energy.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Play solar

The challenge

Far away from the grid in the Gumla district, Jharkand, India, lies the village Pasanga. As the transmission line for the national grid is far away, an off-grid solar system was the answer for powering the village's rice hullers (agricultural machines that remove the outer coat of the rice) as well as irrigation pumps and household lighting.

The solution

Commissioned in 2016, this off-grid system of 24.3kW supplies 30 of the village houses with electricity as well as the irrigation pumps and agricultural machines.

The power is distributed through transmission cables without any loss. All connected houses has an individual smart meter that registers their energy consumption.

Each energy unit has a fixed price and the consumers pay in advance, on a monthly basis their estimated energy consumption.

Other village houses may also join the local network once they pay the minimum charge fee.

Why Studer

For this installation, it was vital to find inverter/chargers that could provide uninterrupted power with high surge handling capacity and high efficiency. As our XTH 8000-48 in the Xtender series with a surge capacity of 21kVA.

Project outcome

The village enjoys access to energy through a stand-alone system that provides them with power whenever they need it.

The smooth operating system is free from pollution and provides the village independent energy.

India: The Smart School, AC coupling

The challenge

Indian cities regularly experience temporary power cuts during daytime, sometimes up to 6 or even 8 hours per day. These power failures influence the continuity and quality of the education at school. Therefore, Sri Vidya Kendra, The Smart school, situated at the outskirts of Bangalore, decided to set up a back-up system with renewable energy in order to eliminate power cuts during school hours, to reduce their use of noisy, costly and polluting diesel generators and to reduce their grid-dependence.

The solution

Founded in 2009, this modern school is situated in a picturesque, green, pollution free environment. They wanted to educate their students about renewable energy and had already installed a grid-tied solar system. However, due to particularly heavy power outages in their locality, the school could hardly use its grid-tied system. By adding 3 Xtender inverter/chargers in three-phase and 8 batteries to their existing system and allocating 14kW of the existing PV panels we provided them with a renewable energy backup system with the possibility to either store the produced energy in the batteries or to inject excess energy into the grid.

The stand-alone backup system supplies electricity to common area lighting, all class rooms (including projectors, lights and fans), the science labs, the computer lad (40 computers), 4 Xerox machines and the administration block during power cuts.

Why Studer

Studer could successfully provide the school with an AC-coupled hybrid system, combining the grid-tied system with a stand-alone backup system.

Project outcome

With its new system, the school and even the entire campus (1400 students from Play school to 12th standard) do not need to worry about power outages; they have round the clock power. There is no longer a need to run the diesel generator for extra power, which leads to big savings on diesel.

The power generated after school hours, on Sundays or during school holidays is injected into the grid with a feed-in tariff making additional incomes for the school.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Solar Corona Energy Pvt Ltd

The challenge

Indian cities regularly experience temporary power cuts during daytime, sometimes up to 6 or even 8 hours per day. These power failures influence the continuity and quality of the education at school. Therefore, Sri Vidya Kendra, The Smart school, situated at the outskirts of Bangalore, decided to set up a back-up system with renewable energy in order to eliminate power cuts during school hours, to reduce their use of noisy, costly and polluting diesel generators and to reduce their grid-dependence.

The solution

Founded in 2009, this modern school is situated in a picturesque, green, pollution free environment. They wanted to educate their students about renewable energy and had already installed a grid-tied solar system. However, due to particularly heavy power outages in their locality, the school could hardly use its grid-tied system. By adding 3 Xtender inverter/chargers in three-phase and 8 batteries to their existing system and allocating 14kW of the existing PV panels we provided them with a renewable energy backup system with the possibility to either store the produced energy in the batteries or to inject excess energy into the grid.

The stand-alone backup system supplies electricity to common area lighting, all class rooms (including projectors, lights and fans), the science labs, the computer lad (40 computers), 4 Xerox machines and the administration block during power cuts.

Why Studer

Studer could successfully provide the school with an AC-coupled hybrid system, combining the grid-tied system with a stand-alone backup system.

Project outcome

With its new system, the school and even the entire campus (1400 students from Play school to 12th standard) do not need to worry about power outages; they have round the clock power. There is no longer a need to run the diesel generator for extra power, which leads to big savings on diesel.

The power generated after school hours, on Sundays or during school holidays is injected into the grid with a feed-in tariff making additional incomes for the school.

Ireland: 72kWA Off-Grid System with Lithium batteries

The challenge

From an economic point of view all off-grid systems with battery storage should find a way to efficiently handle their battery management. This poultry farm with renewable energy in form of wind power is no exception. The challenge was to find a way to automate the energy system so that the wind turbine does not provide more power that can be used or charged to the lithium battery bank.

The solution

oday two large chicken sheds are powered at all times by a 72kVA system with off-grid priority combining Studer's power-electronics with Warik Energy's control and monitoring system EMMA Pro (EPRO).

Power generation on the AC-Out side is automatically regulated through the EPRO that limits the export towards the batteries to 500W per phase and directs the rest of the wind turbine produced power directly towards the sheds and diverts the excess energy into a 7000 liter buffer tank.

A clever programming between the EPRO and the Studer Xtender inverter/ charger's auxiliary relays regulates the power to the BYD batteries making sure that they never become fully charged nor empty. A level is set for the batteries highest and lowest allowed state of charge (SOC).

It is possible to view the system's performance and energy consumption remotely by using Studer's Xcom-LAN access portal. This portal also allow to download the daily, weekly and monthly logs and import them to an excel template file. The EPRO online monitoring displays the turbine generation, demand on site, export to the batteries, import from the batteries, power diverted to heating the tank, and three temperature readings from the tank allowing shut down of the turbine if the tank gets too hot in the event of a pump failing.
An interlock mechanism prevents the wind turbine and the diesel generator to run at the same time. Once the diesel generator starts a stop signal is given to the wind turbine. This is accomplished by putting a simple relay between the AC-In and the diesel generator which signals the turbine when the diesel generator is turned on.

The system has an automatic fault notification and remote access. If a fault occurs, the Xcom-LAN provides automatic notification to three different people through the Studer Access Portal which then can make the necessary changes.

Why Studer

Wind turbines have high start-up inrush currents and the Studer products have the ability to cope with surges close to 3 times its rated capacity. By using Studer's X-connect mounting system it was possible to install much power on a small surface, up to 24kVA per m2.

Project outcome

This system, developed on a tight budget, is functioning well providing the owner almost perfect autonomy from the grid and drastically reducing grid electricity cost and dependency.

Excess power generation is used to provide heat for drying the chicken litter, reducing the need for gas heating and its associated costs.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Warik Energy

The challenge

From an economic point of view all off-grid systems with battery storage should find a way to efficiently handle their battery management. This poultry farm with renewable energy in form of wind power is no exception. The challenge was to find a way to automate the energy system so that the wind turbine does not provide more power that can be used or charged to the lithium battery bank.

The solution

oday two large chicken sheds are powered at all times by a 72kVA system with off-grid priority combining Studer's power-electronics with Warik Energy's control and monitoring system EMMA Pro (EPRO).

Power generation on the AC-Out side is automatically regulated through the EPRO that limits the export towards the batteries to 500W per phase and directs the rest of the wind turbine produced power directly towards the sheds and diverts the excess energy into a 7000 liter buffer tank.

A clever programming between the EPRO and the Studer Xtender inverter/ charger's auxiliary relays regulates the power to the BYD batteries making sure that they never become fully charged nor empty. A level is set for the batteries highest and lowest allowed state of charge (SOC).

It is possible to view the system's performance and energy consumption remotely by using Studer's Xcom-LAN access portal. This portal also allow to download the daily, weekly and monthly logs and import them to an excel template file. The EPRO online monitoring displays the turbine generation, demand on site, export to the batteries, import from the batteries, power diverted to heating the tank, and three temperature readings from the tank allowing shut down of the turbine if the tank gets too hot in the event of a pump failing.
An interlock mechanism prevents the wind turbine and the diesel generator to run at the same time. Once the diesel generator starts a stop signal is given to the wind turbine. This is accomplished by putting a simple relay between the AC-In and the diesel generator which signals the turbine when the diesel generator is turned on.

The system has an automatic fault notification and remote access. If a fault occurs, the Xcom-LAN provides automatic notification to three different people through the Studer Access Portal which then can make the necessary changes.

Why Studer

Wind turbines have high start-up inrush currents and the Studer products have the ability to cope with surges close to 3 times its rated capacity. By using Studer's X-connect mounting system it was possible to install much power on a small surface, up to 24kVA per m2.

Project outcome

This system, developed on a tight budget, is functioning well providing the owner almost perfect autonomy from the grid and drastically reducing grid electricity cost and dependency.

Excess power generation is used to provide heat for drying the chicken litter, reducing the need for gas heating and its associated costs.

Italy: Capanna Gnifetti

The challenge

The Capanna Gnifetti mountain hut, is situated at 3647m above sea level in the Italian Alps close to the Monte Rosa massif. It offers 176 beds, community room, emergency room, shared bathrooms, showers and electric lighting. With a PV system of 2kW their backup diesel generator of 40 kVA was working most of the time. The mountain hut is easiest reached by helicopter which is both expensive and time-consuming. It is therefore of utmost importance that the installer brings all the necessary material, even a missing nut would delay the installation.

The solution

The actual energy needs of the mountain hut was thoroughly calculated and a 15kW off-grid system was installed. It is a three-phase system with one inverter per phase, and two MPPT regulators with strings of 15 modules each. The system can be monitored remotely thanks to the Xcom-LAN.

The installers delivered a complete kit, including batteries, modules, inverters and regulators, all already cabled and configured in their lab.

Why Studer

For remote installations it is clever to choose the most reliable products. Systems with Studer products are very stable under all conditions (weather or miscalculations of loads by the user), quick to set up and has a good peak power capacity.

The installation of 60 PV modules was made easier using the Studer VarioString with its two high voltage input MPPT and with less cables to install on site.

The possibility to upgrade the system with more inverter or chargers for future use is also a good point for the customer. March – September 2018.

Project outcome

The C.A.I (Club Alpino Italiano), owners of the Capanna Gnifetti mountain hut, has currently a renewable energy system better adapted to its size and energy needs. They have drastically reduced the use of the diesel generator, consuming mainly green energy. The new system is also more user friendly as it is programmed to automatically perform certain actions making it easier to use the green energy.

Verantwortlichen Firma

FGS Energie Alternative

The challenge

The Capanna Gnifetti mountain hut, is situated at 3647m above sea level in the Italian Alps close to the Monte Rosa massif. It offers 176 beds, community room, emergency room, shared bathrooms, showers and electric lighting. With a PV system of 2kW their backup diesel generator of 40 kVA was working most of the time. The mountain hut is easiest reached by helicopter which is both expensive and time-consuming. It is therefore of utmost importance that the installer brings all the necessary material, even a missing nut would delay the installation.

The solution

The actual energy needs of the mountain hut was thoroughly calculated and a 15kW off-grid system was installed. It is a three-phase system with one inverter per phase, and two MPPT regulators with strings of 15 modules each. The system can be monitored remotely thanks to the Xcom-LAN.

The installers delivered a complete kit, including batteries, modules, inverters and regulators, all already cabled and configured in their lab.

Why Studer

For remote installations it is clever to choose the most reliable products. Systems with Studer products are very stable under all conditions (weather or miscalculations of loads by the user), quick to set up and has a good peak power capacity.

The installation of 60 PV modules was made easier using the Studer VarioString with its two high voltage input MPPT and with less cables to install on site.

The possibility to upgrade the system with more inverter or chargers for future use is also a good point for the customer. March – September 2018.

Project outcome

The C.A.I (Club Alpino Italiano), owners of the Capanna Gnifetti mountain hut, has currently a renewable energy system better adapted to its size and energy needs. They have drastically reduced the use of the diesel generator, consuming mainly green energy. The new system is also more user friendly as it is programmed to automatically perform certain actions making it easier to use the green energy.

Italy: Hybrid System

The challenge

The Anfora Island is a picturesque fishing village at the heart of the Grado lagoon situated on the north-eastern coast of Italy. Totally off-grid, the owners of the hotel and trattoria "Ai Ciodi" on this island had relied on a diesel generator for the electricity needed in their business and for the island's fresh water pump. By using energy from renewable sources (photovoltaic), they hope that the passing tourists will have a more enjoyable stay (tranquillity) and to reduce the ecological footprint on the surrounding nature.

The solution

In order to dimension the system properly a thorough calculation of the users' daily energy consumption through technical inspections and interviews was made taking into consideration the different energy needs during the open three seasons; Spring, Summer and Fall. The system is used for lights, cooking, refrigerators, air conditioning, satellite TV etc.

The resulting hybrid system consist of 36 x 185Wp PV panels, built and certified in accordance with EN61215 standards. For storage, 24 lead-acid batteries, OPZS1200 48Vdc/1200Ah-C10, were chosen to guarantee high reliability and low self-consumption. The solar charge controller, Power Tarom 4140, automatically manages the flow of energy to and from the battery and ensure maximum control and charge thereof. Then is also installed two inverter/chargers XTH 6000-48 in parallel, each feeding a line of electrical loads. A framework with Multiple insertion switch allows you to switch the two lines into a single inverter if supply fails.

As support to the PV system, there is one diesel generator 25kW in three-phase. The generator also run the fresh water pump for water supply of the whole island.

Why Studer

Studer products were chosen due to their outstanding quality, technical performance and features. For instance, in this installation the Xtender inverter/charger has been programmed to automatically control the genset. If there is not enough renewable energy for the electrical loads, the Xtender switches on the diesel generator. When there is no need for extra energy the genset is automatically switched off.

Project outcome

The combined action of the two systems: photovoltaic and diesel generator, guarantee the reliability and continuity of energy, avoiding troublesome and dangerous electrical blackouts. The idea of using energy from renewable sources (photovoltaic) makes the stay even more enjoyable to passing tourists, helping to spread the photovoltaic technology throughout the Grado Lagoon, a site of high natural value.

After the installation of the photovoltaic system, the diesel generator is only used 3 hours a day instead of the 8 hours prior to the PV system, which is a considerable reduction. According to the installing company's calculations, this PV hybrid system will pay for itself in about 5-6 years. The system's life is about 30 years and if the system's batteries are used properly (they have an estimated life of 8-9 years) the battery replacements will be repaid by annual cost savings produced by the system.

Verantwortlichen Firma

ENERECO srl

The challenge

The Anfora Island is a picturesque fishing village at the heart of the Grado lagoon situated on the north-eastern coast of Italy. Totally off-grid, the owners of the hotel and trattoria "Ai Ciodi" on this island had relied on a diesel generator for the electricity needed in their business and for the island's fresh water pump. By using energy from renewable sources (photovoltaic), they hope that the passing tourists will have a more enjoyable stay (tranquillity) and to reduce the ecological footprint on the surrounding nature.

The solution

In order to dimension the system properly a thorough calculation of the users' daily energy consumption through technical inspections and interviews was made taking into consideration the different energy needs during the open three seasons; Spring, Summer and Fall. The system is used for lights, cooking, refrigerators, air conditioning, satellite TV etc.

The resulting hybrid system consist of 36 x 185Wp PV panels, built and certified in accordance with EN61215 standards. For storage, 24 lead-acid batteries, OPZS1200 48Vdc/1200Ah-C10, were chosen to guarantee high reliability and low self-consumption. The solar charge controller, Power Tarom 4140, automatically manages the flow of energy to and from the battery and ensure maximum control and charge thereof. Then is also installed two inverter/chargers XTH 6000-48 in parallel, each feeding a line of electrical loads. A framework with Multiple insertion switch allows you to switch the two lines into a single inverter if supply fails.

As support to the PV system, there is one diesel generator 25kW in three-phase. The generator also run the fresh water pump for water supply of the whole island.

Why Studer

Studer products were chosen due to their outstanding quality, technical performance and features. For instance, in this installation the Xtender inverter/charger has been programmed to automatically control the genset. If there is not enough renewable energy for the electrical loads, the Xtender switches on the diesel generator. When there is no need for extra energy the genset is automatically switched off.

Project outcome

The combined action of the two systems: photovoltaic and diesel generator, guarantee the reliability and continuity of energy, avoiding troublesome and dangerous electrical blackouts. The idea of using energy from renewable sources (photovoltaic) makes the stay even more enjoyable to passing tourists, helping to spread the photovoltaic technology throughout the Grado Lagoon, a site of high natural value.

After the installation of the photovoltaic system, the diesel generator is only used 3 hours a day instead of the 8 hours prior to the PV system, which is a considerable reduction. According to the installing company's calculations, this PV hybrid system will pay for itself in about 5-6 years. The system's life is about 30 years and if the system's batteries are used properly (they have an estimated life of 8-9 years) the battery replacements will be repaid by annual cost savings produced by the system.

Kenya: Rural Hospital in the Masai Region

The challenge

Help Masai is a registered Kenyan community-based organization, with the mission “Helping improve maternity and child care, income generation training, and food growing in the Masai region of Kenya”. This project consists of the development of a maternity / child hospital in Ngoswani since the nearest hospital that provides 24/7 emergency Cesarean section operations is 160 Kms (100 miles) away on roads that are not well maintained in this very remote region.

The solution

The Lions Maternal Child Health Centre in the Masai region is in a remote part of Kenya with no access to electricity. Now the health centre can provide 24/7 medical services thanks to the energy system installed.
The solar power charges the battery bank during the day. The battery system with Studer inverters ensures continuous electricity supply to the health centre and all of the equipment installed there. The second Studer inverter provides a second output at 120Vac for US manufactured medical devices available in the hospital.

Why Studer

The Studer solution, as always, is robust and suitable for the rural and harsh conditions of this part of Kenya. The flexibility of having two different outputs enables the use of different medical devices donated by European and American organizations. The remote monitoring facilitates the follow up of the installation by the technicians from both Nairobi and the US and reduce the need for travel to site.

Project outcome

The hospital will provide a reliable service available 24h/7 improving the maternity/child medical services and care in the Masai region. This includes the advanced medical equipment not usually available in this region, powered by the Studer system. This will also encourage doctors from the city to be deployed in this rural area, bringing their skills and ensuring an improved service contributing to an increased life expectancy for births in this region.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Center for Alternative Technologies (CAT) Kenya

The challenge

Help Masai is a registered Kenyan community-based organization, with the mission “Helping improve maternity and child care, income generation training, and food growing in the Masai region of Kenya”. This project consists of the development of a maternity / child hospital in Ngoswani since the nearest hospital that provides 24/7 emergency Cesarean section operations is 160 Kms (100 miles) away on roads that are not well maintained in this very remote region.

The solution

The Lions Maternal Child Health Centre in the Masai region is in a remote part of Kenya with no access to electricity. Now the health centre can provide 24/7 medical services thanks to the energy system installed.
The solar power charges the battery bank during the day. The battery system with Studer inverters ensures continuous electricity supply to the health centre and all of the equipment installed there. The second Studer inverter provides a second output at 120Vac for US manufactured medical devices available in the hospital.

Why Studer

The Studer solution, as always, is robust and suitable for the rural and harsh conditions of this part of Kenya. The flexibility of having two different outputs enables the use of different medical devices donated by European and American organizations. The remote monitoring facilitates the follow up of the installation by the technicians from both Nairobi and the US and reduce the need for travel to site.

Project outcome

The hospital will provide a reliable service available 24h/7 improving the maternity/child medical services and care in the Masai region. This includes the advanced medical equipment not usually available in this region, powered by the Studer system. This will also encourage doctors from the city to be deployed in this rural area, bringing their skills and ensuring an improved service contributing to an increased life expectancy for births in this region.

The challenge

To improve the living conditions in the rural communities of Latin America's eight most disadvantaged countries through the use of renewable energy. To help the inhabitants to fight against poverty, isolation and marginalisation resulting from their socioeconomic conditions.

The solution

The EURO-SOLAR Programme helped the communities through the installation of kits that provides electricity, communication facilities in form of computers, an internet connection and a projector and health care devices such as a refrigerator for medicine and a water purifier.

Most of the beneficiary communities (70%) opted for a solar-energy system. The consistent wind in Bolivia and in Peru, led these countries to choose mixed solar-wind systems. 12 Gel batteries store the energy for access to electricity around the clock.
A control panel monitors and manages the electricity storage and directs the power to the facilities.

This project used a participatory approach where the communities has to cover the expenses for the operation and maintenance of the equipment included in the EURO-SOLAR kit. For that reason the system has been designed to be user-friendly and its equipment carefully selected for its robustness, reliability and ease of repair.

Why Studer

As these systems are installed in remote areas, EURO-SOLAR wanted products of high reliability that were produced in Europe.

Project outcome

At the end of the EURO-SOLAR Programme 600 power-generation kits had been installed providing electricity, based exclusively on renewable energy sources, to over 300 000 people in 600 rural communities in Latin America previously without access to electricity.

The total budget was 36.4 million Euros, co-financed by the European Union (80%) and the national governments of the beneficiary countries (20%).

Systemkomponente

5m2 of PV panels

A wind turbine (30% of communities)

12 x gel batteries

1 x solar charge regulator

1 x STUDER Inverter AJ 1300-24

1 x STUDER Inverter AJ 350-24

A cinder-block shed to protect the batteries

A control panel and power supply

A safety fence for the enclosure

Verantwortlichen Firma

Eurosolar

The challenge

To improve the living conditions in the rural communities of Latin America's eight most disadvantaged countries through the use of renewable energy. To help the inhabitants to fight against poverty, isolation and marginalisation resulting from their socioeconomic conditions.

The solution

The EURO-SOLAR Programme helped the communities through the installation of kits that provides electricity, communication facilities in form of computers, an internet connection and a projector and health care devices such as a refrigerator for medicine and a water purifier.

Most of the beneficiary communities (70%) opted for a solar-energy system. The consistent wind in Bolivia and in Peru, led these countries to choose mixed solar-wind systems. 12 Gel batteries store the energy for access to electricity around the clock.
A control panel monitors and manages the electricity storage and directs the power to the facilities.

This project used a participatory approach where the communities has to cover the expenses for the operation and maintenance of the equipment included in the EURO-SOLAR kit. For that reason the system has been designed to be user-friendly and its equipment carefully selected for its robustness, reliability and ease of repair.

Why Studer

As these systems are installed in remote areas, EURO-SOLAR wanted products of high reliability that were produced in Europe.

Project outcome

At the end of the EURO-SOLAR Programme 600 power-generation kits had been installed providing electricity, based exclusively on renewable energy sources, to over 300 000 people in 600 rural communities in Latin America previously without access to electricity.

The total budget was 36.4 million Euros, co-financed by the European Union (80%) and the national governments of the beneficiary countries (20%).

Latin America: Pepamobile, Bruno Furer, Mobile Application

The challenge

Mr and Mrs Furer are an adventurous couple that loves to travel and to discover different countries around the world aboard their van "The Pepamobil". Traditionally, a combination of the vehicle's 24 volt, 220 volt and gas is used to provide power in vehicles. Mr Furer started out with a system combining solar panels with a gas generator and 120l gas tank. However, the gas tank had some problems with the height and temperature when they travelled in South America. Mr Furer started to think of a new improved system. This new system would have to work continuously 24/7, whatever the environment. The truck would visit places up to 5.000 meters above sea level with temperatures from -25°C up to +40°C and humidity up to 95%.

The solution

The mobile hybrid system is completely running on 220V with a small battery bank. It powers a refrigerator, a freezer, an induction hob, an oven, a water pump, lights and other loads. The procurement of household appliances becomes easier and a lot cheaper when all appliances are 220V. The network is more stable than the one from the socket (!).
The system includes solar panels, MPPT solar charge controllers, an inverter/charger and batteries. Additional energy comes from a windturbine.

Why Studer

After having looked at various products on the market such as an Australian system and Mastervolt, they opted for Studer. Decisive for Mr Furer was the HP-Compact inverter/charger's adjustable charge detection system (1-20W) that allows the smallest energy consumption and ensures a long life of the battery. Another important factor was that the product is entirely manufactured in Switzerland.

Mr and Mrs Furer are pleased to have gained independence from gas, 110V and a 220V grid connection. Almost every country has its own gas connections and rules on how to refuel gas cylinders. With gas the power fluctuated between 95-220 volts making it hard for their electronics to follow. The battery based system provide them with a very stable and secure power supply. Also, they no longer have to worry about gas replacement or if there will be enough energy during their travels, making them more comfortable and less stressful.
After ten years their chosen system is still working very well; they never have had to eat cold food…

Systemkomponente

600 W 24 V Siemens solar modules

Sonnenschein 2 Volt Zellen 450 Ah batteries

1 x STUDER inverter/charger Compact, HPC 4400-24

1 x Mid Nite MPPT solar charge controller

Other:Wingenerator Super Wind

Verantwortlichen Firma

Bruno Furer

The challenge

Mr and Mrs Furer are an adventurous couple that loves to travel and to discover different countries around the world aboard their van "The Pepamobil". Traditionally, a combination of the vehicle's 24 volt, 220 volt and gas is used to provide power in vehicles. Mr Furer started out with a system combining solar panels with a gas generator and 120l gas tank. However, the gas tank had some problems with the height and temperature when they travelled in South America. Mr Furer started to think of a new improved system. This new system would have to work continuously 24/7, whatever the environment. The truck would visit places up to 5.000 meters above sea level with temperatures from -25°C up to +40°C and humidity up to 95%.

The solution

The mobile hybrid system is completely running on 220V with a small battery bank. It powers a refrigerator, a freezer, an induction hob, an oven, a water pump, lights and other loads. The procurement of household appliances becomes easier and a lot cheaper when all appliances are 220V. The network is more stable than the one from the socket (!).
The system includes solar panels, MPPT solar charge controllers, an inverter/charger and batteries. Additional energy comes from a windturbine.

Why Studer

After having looked at various products on the market such as an Australian system and Mastervolt, they opted for Studer. Decisive for Mr Furer was the HP-Compact inverter/charger's adjustable charge detection system (1-20W) that allows the smallest energy consumption and ensures a long life of the battery. Another important factor was that the product is entirely manufactured in Switzerland.

Mr and Mrs Furer are pleased to have gained independence from gas, 110V and a 220V grid connection. Almost every country has its own gas connections and rules on how to refuel gas cylinders. With gas the power fluctuated between 95-220 volts making it hard for their electronics to follow. The battery based system provide them with a very stable and secure power supply. Also, they no longer have to worry about gas replacement or if there will be enough energy during their travels, making them more comfortable and less stressful.
After ten years their chosen system is still working very well; they never have had to eat cold food…

Peru: Empowering Mushuk Lamas

The challenge

High in the jungle and inaccessible by motor vehicle, the native community of Mushuk Lamas has yet to be connected to the grid by the Peruvian government. Living half their lives in the dark means it is difficult to study and learn after sunset, makes cooking and cleaning more challenging, and limits economic development for this hard-working community.

The solution

With community investment and sweat equity along with volunteer designers and installers, Twende Solar organized donations of supplies, funds and volunteers to install a 7.2kw off-grid, ground-mount PV system + battery backup that will produce an estimated 9,800 KWH per year. Powering an Internet tower and bringing electricity to the community center will increase the productive hours of the day and access to information and learning with power to spare once they are ready to transmit to their homes.

Why Studer

Needing rugged and reliable system components to keep the Mushuk Lamas community empowered for years to come in their tropical, jungle environment, STUDER was the perfect choice for power electronics. With a 10 year warranty and widespread use in Peru, Twende felt confident that the donated system would be in good hands in the rare event special maintenance were needed.

Project outcome

Living responsibly off the richness of the land in the protected Cordillera Escalera, the self-sufficient Mushuk Lamas community is able to grow or make most of the things they need to live. With this solar system and battery backup, they now also produce their own electricity and will have access to the basic functions of lighting, refrigeration, and the internet. Generating solar power means the community will be able to improve coffee production and achieve a higher price for their beans through membership in a cooperative.

Systemkomponente

24 x Jinko JKM305P-72 solar modules

5 x SimpliPhi Phi3.5 batteries

2 x STUDER XTM 4000-48 inverter/chargers

2 x STUDER VT-65 MPPT solar charge controllers

Unirac ULA racking

1 x STUDER Remote Control RCC-03

1 x STUDER Communication Set Xcom-GSM

Verantwortlichen Firma

Twende Solar

The challenge

High in the jungle and inaccessible by motor vehicle, the native community of Mushuk Lamas has yet to be connected to the grid by the Peruvian government. Living half their lives in the dark means it is difficult to study and learn after sunset, makes cooking and cleaning more challenging, and limits economic development for this hard-working community.

The solution

With community investment and sweat equity along with volunteer designers and installers, Twende Solar organized donations of supplies, funds and volunteers to install a 7.2kw off-grid, ground-mount PV system + battery backup that will produce an estimated 9,800 KWH per year. Powering an Internet tower and bringing electricity to the community center will increase the productive hours of the day and access to information and learning with power to spare once they are ready to transmit to their homes.

Why Studer

Needing rugged and reliable system components to keep the Mushuk Lamas community empowered for years to come in their tropical, jungle environment, STUDER was the perfect choice for power electronics. With a 10 year warranty and widespread use in Peru, Twende felt confident that the donated system would be in good hands in the rare event special maintenance were needed.

Project outcome

Living responsibly off the richness of the land in the protected Cordillera Escalera, the self-sufficient Mushuk Lamas community is able to grow or make most of the things they need to live. With this solar system and battery backup, they now also produce their own electricity and will have access to the basic functions of lighting, refrigeration, and the internet. Generating solar power means the community will be able to improve coffee production and achieve a higher price for their beans through membership in a cooperative.

Peru: Proyecto Telefónica

The challenge

For the past six years, Telefónica, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world, has actively been working on reducing the diesel consumption of its base stations around the world. They have taken several initiatives in this direction such as replacing the old telecommunications equipment with modern electronics, to use renewable energy, mainly solar power, to generate energy and to use deep cycle gel batteries to create hybrid systems.

The solution

As the base stations used diesel generators for energy supply previously, it was a natural step forward to create hybrid solar systems. In these systems renewable energy is generated in the solar panels, stored in batteries and managed by the inverter/chargers. The diesel generators are mainly used for back up.

By using Studer's highly efficient "battery priority function", which gives priority to using renewable energy, Telefónica has drastically reduced the generator running times, saving diesel and improving generator lifetime. In some cases they have even completely removed the diesel generators and relocated them to other base stations.

Why Studer

Studer inverters and MPPT solar charge controllers are working perfectly together offering a fully integrated and synchronized energy system. Furthermore, Studer products are meeting the telecom market's demanding requirements in terms of reliability.

Project outcome

The savings due to the reduced use of diesel has allowed Telefónica to recover the investment cost in less than two years. As there is currently more energy available, the base stations have the possibility to install more telecommunications equipment.

Systemkomponente

Polycrystal Solar Modules YINGLI, 85Wp, 12 Vdc

Sonnenschein batteries, Línea A602 Solar

1 x STUDER inverter/charger Xtender XTM 4000-48, 230 Vac, 60 Hz

1 x STUDER MPPTsolar charge controller VarioString Studer VS-70

1 x STUDER remote control RCC-03

1 x STUDER BTS-01

1 x STUDER remote communication Xcom-LAN

1 x STUDER BSP 500

Verantwortlichen Firma

Q-Energy Peru

The challenge

For the past six years, Telefónica, one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world, has actively been working on reducing the diesel consumption of its base stations around the world. They have taken several initiatives in this direction such as replacing the old telecommunications equipment with modern electronics, to use renewable energy, mainly solar power, to generate energy and to use deep cycle gel batteries to create hybrid systems.

The solution

As the base stations used diesel generators for energy supply previously, it was a natural step forward to create hybrid solar systems. In these systems renewable energy is generated in the solar panels, stored in batteries and managed by the inverter/chargers. The diesel generators are mainly used for back up.

By using Studer's highly efficient "battery priority function", which gives priority to using renewable energy, Telefónica has drastically reduced the generator running times, saving diesel and improving generator lifetime. In some cases they have even completely removed the diesel generators and relocated them to other base stations.

Why Studer

Studer inverters and MPPT solar charge controllers are working perfectly together offering a fully integrated and synchronized energy system. Furthermore, Studer products are meeting the telecom market's demanding requirements in terms of reliability.

Project outcome

The savings due to the reduced use of diesel has allowed Telefónica to recover the investment cost in less than two years. As there is currently more energy available, the base stations have the possibility to install more telecommunications equipment.

South Africa: Off-Grid Lodges Kruger National Park

The challenge

There are a number of lodges in national parks across Africa that are off-grid and AC power availability is such that it is either not possible or the cost of bringing this power to the lodges is prohibitive. These lodges tend to run solely on generators 24/7. This solution is not only costly in itself, there is also a lot of noise and air pollution in some of the most pristine wildlife sanctuaries on the continent.

Two such lodges have now been converted to solar power with battery back-up and the generators only to be used in times when the loads have been particularly heavy or in times when there has been insufficient solar radiation.

The solution

In order to ensure the uninterrupted supply of power to the large number of chalets on these lodges, the system supplies energy during the day from the 20 kW AC coupled inverter. If there is any additional power needed this can be supplied from the batteries via the Xtenders.

The power at night is also supplied from the batteries and if there is a shortage for any reason then the generator will automatically supply this shortfall or be used to charge the batteries when required. The use of the generator is only as back-up and the system has been designed to supply the needs of the lodge mainly from renewables.

Why Studer

Because of the location of the lodges in very remote parts of the very large Kruger National Park, reliability of the equipment was of utmost importance. The temperatures in the park can also get very high and the Studer devices robustness and performance in harsh climates appealed to the customer.

The setup of the system is also easy in terms of the charge cycle of the batteries because the VarioString units are synchronized with the Xtenders. The generator auto-start is also managed very easily by battery SOC, voltage and/or time of day. When the Studer Innotec manufactured devices are installed in conjunction with other equipment, in the case of failures, the Studer devices historically keep functioning and keeps the system running.

Project outcome

The saving in reduction of diesel fuel that was previously used to run the generator 24/7 contributes tremendously towards the financial return on the investment. The reduction in noise and air pollution has also impacted the standing and perception of the lodges by the many visitors to the park.

Systemkomponente

60kWp Yingly YGE solar modules

96 xNarada batteries 2V 2000Ah AGM

6 x STUDER inverter/chargers,DC-coupled solar Xtender XTH 8000-48

20 kW Ingeteam grid-tie inverter AC-coupled solar

7 x STUDER MPPT solar charge controller VarioString, VS-120

Racking:Schletter Ground-Mount

2 x STUER X-Connect Multi Xtender system

1 x STUDER BSP-1200

1 x STUDER remote control RCC-02

1 x STUDER remote communication Xcom-LAN

Verantwortlichen Firma

Current Automation

The challenge

There are a number of lodges in national parks across Africa that are off-grid and AC power availability is such that it is either not possible or the cost of bringing this power to the lodges is prohibitive. These lodges tend to run solely on generators 24/7. This solution is not only costly in itself, there is also a lot of noise and air pollution in some of the most pristine wildlife sanctuaries on the continent.

Two such lodges have now been converted to solar power with battery back-up and the generators only to be used in times when the loads have been particularly heavy or in times when there has been insufficient solar radiation.

The solution

In order to ensure the uninterrupted supply of power to the large number of chalets on these lodges, the system supplies energy during the day from the 20 kW AC coupled inverter. If there is any additional power needed this can be supplied from the batteries via the Xtenders.

The power at night is also supplied from the batteries and if there is a shortage for any reason then the generator will automatically supply this shortfall or be used to charge the batteries when required. The use of the generator is only as back-up and the system has been designed to supply the needs of the lodge mainly from renewables.

Why Studer

Because of the location of the lodges in very remote parts of the very large Kruger National Park, reliability of the equipment was of utmost importance. The temperatures in the park can also get very high and the Studer devices robustness and performance in harsh climates appealed to the customer.

The setup of the system is also easy in terms of the charge cycle of the batteries because the VarioString units are synchronized with the Xtenders. The generator auto-start is also managed very easily by battery SOC, voltage and/or time of day. When the Studer Innotec manufactured devices are installed in conjunction with other equipment, in the case of failures, the Studer devices historically keep functioning and keeps the system running.

Project outcome

The saving in reduction of diesel fuel that was previously used to run the generator 24/7 contributes tremendously towards the financial return on the investment. The reduction in noise and air pollution has also impacted the standing and perception of the lodges by the many visitors to the park.

South Africa: Off-grid system Cradle of Humankind

The challenge

Grid connection or grid independence? Today, as new residential areas develop outside the existing national grid network it is an important question to ask. The owner of this private residence, comprising four buildings for both residential and industrial use, choose energy independence over a costly grid connection.

One of the main challenges for this off-grid system was the location of its solar array. The area with maximal solar radiation was located 60 meters from the buildings with the power-electronics.

The solution

The residence is situated in the Cradle of Humankind north-west of Johannesburg, a known anthropological site where 40% of the worlds discovered human ancestor fossils have been found.

This off-grid system has an 84 kW solar array, 72 kVA power-electronics, a large battery bank for extended autonomy and a 50kVA generator for back-up. It supplies independent power to four buildings and several pumps for water supply. The generator is used for energy backup and has been automatically programmed to start at a certain state of charge (SOC) level.

The long distance between PV panels and power-electronics could have become costly for this off-grid system. By using VarioString MPPT solar charge controllers with high input PV voltage it was possible to use small diameter cables with low voltage drop providing an effective and economical solution.

The PV panels was mounted on high frames providing a well appreciated shaded parking underneath for the offices.

Why Studer

The VarioString high-voltage MPPT solar charge controller that provides balance of system advantages not available from any other suppliers.

The Xtender inverter/charger with a surge capacity that can handle three times its nominal power which is a great benefit in systems that has to cope with the start-up of large water pumps. No other device on the market in South Africa has this kind of capacity.

Project outcome

Choosing an independent energy solution has created a big change in energy consumption. Since its installation this robust and reliable system has made it possible to minimize the use of the generator resulting in massive diesel savings. The generator has only been used in case of emergencies or to charge the battery bank.

Systemkomponente

84kWp Bluesun solar array

GEL - 8000 Ah 48V battery bank

9 x STUDER inverter/chargers Xtender, XTH 8000-48

12 x STUDER MPPT solar charge controllers VarioString VS-120

Raking: Ground Mount solar

1 x STUDER remote communication Xcom-LAN remote control

50 kVA back-up generator automatic start integrated

Verantwortlichen Firma

Rubicon

The challenge

Grid connection or grid independence? Today, as new residential areas develop outside the existing national grid network it is an important question to ask. The owner of this private residence, comprising four buildings for both residential and industrial use, choose energy independence over a costly grid connection.

One of the main challenges for this off-grid system was the location of its solar array. The area with maximal solar radiation was located 60 meters from the buildings with the power-electronics.

The solution

The residence is situated in the Cradle of Humankind north-west of Johannesburg, a known anthropological site where 40% of the worlds discovered human ancestor fossils have been found.

This off-grid system has an 84 kW solar array, 72 kVA power-electronics, a large battery bank for extended autonomy and a 50kVA generator for back-up. It supplies independent power to four buildings and several pumps for water supply. The generator is used for energy backup and has been automatically programmed to start at a certain state of charge (SOC) level.

The long distance between PV panels and power-electronics could have become costly for this off-grid system. By using VarioString MPPT solar charge controllers with high input PV voltage it was possible to use small diameter cables with low voltage drop providing an effective and economical solution.

The PV panels was mounted on high frames providing a well appreciated shaded parking underneath for the offices.

Why Studer

The VarioString high-voltage MPPT solar charge controller that provides balance of system advantages not available from any other suppliers.

The Xtender inverter/charger with a surge capacity that can handle three times its nominal power which is a great benefit in systems that has to cope with the start-up of large water pumps. No other device on the market in South Africa has this kind of capacity.

Project outcome

Choosing an independent energy solution has created a big change in energy consumption. Since its installation this robust and reliable system has made it possible to minimize the use of the generator resulting in massive diesel savings. The generator has only been used in case of emergencies or to charge the battery bank.

Spain: Apoyo a la Red Electrica Salamanca

The challenge

This Project was carried out in a small village called Alberguería de Arganan, a Spanish rural area close to the border of Portugal.
In Spanish rural areas, it's really common for houses to not have enough power supplied by the grid to power all the loads houses have nowadays. That is due to the fact that those electrical installations were built some decades ago where, in the past, the need of powering loads was really low compared to today's needs (electrical household appliances in addition to the rest of the electrical devices in the home).

The solution

Power supplied by the electrical household to these households it's 220-230V, 50 Hz and 10A (single phase). The maximum power available it's 2,3 kVA. This is dependent upon the voltage and how stable the electrical grid is at any moment.

Why Studer

STUDER offers huge options for setting all the parameters up to allow the implementation of the required special applications and their needs. Furthermore, with the XCOM-LAN module, this household can be remotely monitored and in case of any failure the owner can be notified in real time.

The SMART-BOOST feature is the key to get more power than the grid can supply at any moment making you more independent of the electrical supplier.

Considering that nowadays there are lots of electrical devices in any household and sometimes most of them are connected at the same time, that load demand is much higher than the available power coming from the grid (only 2,2 kVA). Due to the load demand, usually you will see AC breakers falling down leaving the household in a blackout situation.

By adding the STUDER XTM 3500-24 and the lithium battery RB24V100 from RELiON Battery, when more power is needed it's supplied from the battery through the XTM 3500-24 and then the total power available becomes in 5,7 kVA thanks to the SMART-BOST feature.

Furthermore, villages as Alberguería de Arganan that are indeed at the endings of the Spanish electrical grid, suffer blackouts quite often because the electrical grid is overloaded and the power is not available at the end of the electrical line. Thanks to the energy stored in the battery and the inverter-charger, this technical trouble is now fixed because the new installed system acts as real-time backup power. Therefore, the electrical supply at this household is guaranteed.

Project outcome

Once the installation was finished, the customer could connect several electrical devices together without needing to consider the amount of power being used before having a blackout.

Having a look at the technical data recorded by the STUDER RCC-02 post installation, it was recorded the grid failed several times (blackouts), but the system reacted immediately avoiding the usual energy problems from the grid.

Systemkomponente

1 x STUDER inverter/charger Xtender, XTM 3500-24

1 x LiFePO4 battery RELION RB24V100

1 x STUDER remote control RCC-02

1 x STUDER communication kit Xcom-LAN

Verantwortlichen Firma

Electricidad Samuel Domínguez

The challenge

This Project was carried out in a small village called Alberguería de Arganan, a Spanish rural area close to the border of Portugal.
In Spanish rural areas, it's really common for houses to not have enough power supplied by the grid to power all the loads houses have nowadays. That is due to the fact that those electrical installations were built some decades ago where, in the past, the need of powering loads was really low compared to today's needs (electrical household appliances in addition to the rest of the electrical devices in the home).

The solution

Power supplied by the electrical household to these households it's 220-230V, 50 Hz and 10A (single phase). The maximum power available it's 2,3 kVA. This is dependent upon the voltage and how stable the electrical grid is at any moment.

Why Studer

STUDER offers huge options for setting all the parameters up to allow the implementation of the required special applications and their needs. Furthermore, with the XCOM-LAN module, this household can be remotely monitored and in case of any failure the owner can be notified in real time.

The SMART-BOOST feature is the key to get more power than the grid can supply at any moment making you more independent of the electrical supplier.

Considering that nowadays there are lots of electrical devices in any household and sometimes most of them are connected at the same time, that load demand is much higher than the available power coming from the grid (only 2,2 kVA). Due to the load demand, usually you will see AC breakers falling down leaving the household in a blackout situation.

By adding the STUDER XTM 3500-24 and the lithium battery RB24V100 from RELiON Battery, when more power is needed it's supplied from the battery through the XTM 3500-24 and then the total power available becomes in 5,7 kVA thanks to the SMART-BOST feature.

Furthermore, villages as Alberguería de Arganan that are indeed at the endings of the Spanish electrical grid, suffer blackouts quite often because the electrical grid is overloaded and the power is not available at the end of the electrical line. Thanks to the energy stored in the battery and the inverter-charger, this technical trouble is now fixed because the new installed system acts as real-time backup power. Therefore, the electrical supply at this household is guaranteed.

Project outcome

Once the installation was finished, the customer could connect several electrical devices together without needing to consider the amount of power being used before having a blackout.

Having a look at the technical data recorded by the STUDER RCC-02 post installation, it was recorded the grid failed several times (blackouts), but the system reacted immediately avoiding the usual energy problems from the grid.

Spain: Telecom Vodafone

The challenge

Vodafone has made it one of their strategic business objectives to be a responsible company by taking care of and respecting the environment. One important step in this direction was to start using renewable energy in the electrification of their base stations and thereby reducing the use of diesel generators.

The solution

To reduce the diesel consumption, wind turbine manufacturer ENAIR suggested an energy system solution with battery storage of the generated renewable energy. The solution, based on the direct accumulation of batteries, comprise wind turbines, PV panels, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries with OPzS technology and power electronics from Studer Innotec.

With this system, the diesel generator is only used if there is no wind nor photovoltaic production and the batteries are discharged.

Why Studer

Studer is a highly recognized brand for renewable energy system solutions in remote telecommunication installations.

Besides its outstanding reliability, Studer offers a unique feature: the “battery priority function”, that allows using renewable energy as much as possible over costly and polluting generators.

Project outcome

The new renewable energy solution has successfully reduced the operating time of the diesel generators, saving 85% of diesel consumption. The payback period is about five years for a system that has a durability of about 25 years.

All this has been made possible thanks to the accumulation of energy produced by ENAIR wind turbines and photovoltaic panels.

Verantwortlichen Firma

Enair

The challenge

Vodafone has made it one of their strategic business objectives to be a responsible company by taking care of and respecting the environment. One important step in this direction was to start using renewable energy in the electrification of their base stations and thereby reducing the use of diesel generators.

The solution

To reduce the diesel consumption, wind turbine manufacturer ENAIR suggested an energy system solution with battery storage of the generated renewable energy. The solution, based on the direct accumulation of batteries, comprise wind turbines, PV panels, deep-cycle lead-acid batteries with OPzS technology and power electronics from Studer Innotec.

With this system, the diesel generator is only used if there is no wind nor photovoltaic production and the batteries are discharged.

Why Studer

Studer is a highly recognized brand for renewable energy system solutions in remote telecommunication installations.

Besides its outstanding reliability, Studer offers a unique feature: the “battery priority function”, that allows using renewable energy as much as possible over costly and polluting generators.

Project outcome

The new renewable energy solution has successfully reduced the operating time of the diesel generators, saving 85% of diesel consumption. The payback period is about five years for a system that has a durability of about 25 years.

All this has been made possible thanks to the accumulation of energy produced by ENAIR wind turbines and photovoltaic panels.